Tracee Ellis Ross And Eddie Murphy Team Up To Make Christmas Comedy Magic
Eddie Murphy is finally lending his onscreen talent to a holiday film and tapped Tracee Ellis Ross to play his wife.
The veteran comedy film star will make his holiday movie debut in Amazon Prime’s “Candy Cane Lane,” Today reports. Murphy will play the role of Chris Carver, a family man who wants nothing more than to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas home decoration contest.
Ellis Ross will play Murphy’s wife Carol, a mother of three who is forced into Chris’s mischievous magical plan to win the holiday contest. Others on the cast include Thaddeus J. Mixson, Ken Marino, and Nick Offerman.
“After Chris inadvertently makes a deal with a mischievous elf named Pepper (Jillian Bell) to better his chances of winning, she casts a magic spell that brings the 12 days of Christmas to life, and wreaks havoc on the whole town,” the film logline states.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vVOSri7kks
“At the risk of ruining the holidays for his family, Chris, his wife Carol (Tracee Ellis Ross), and their three children must race against the clock to break Pepper’s spell, battle deviously magical characters, and save Christmas for everyone.”
The new holiday film serves as a slight nod to Murphy’s 1992 cult classic “Boomerang,” as the “SNL” alum teamed back up with “Boomerang” director Reginald Hudlin and producer Brian Graze. With a fun magical spin, it’ll be the first time fans get to see Murphy bust his onscreen comedic chops for the Christmas season.
It’s also based on a real street located in El Segundo, California where the movie’s writer, Kelly Younger, drew inspiration for the screenplay based on his time living on Candy Cane Lane.
Murphy is no stranger to family flicks and has amazed audiences with his leading roles in films like “Dr. Dolittle,” “The Haunted Mansion,” and “Daddy Daycare.” Earlier this year, a “Shrek” spinoff film following Murphy’s fan-favorite character, Donkey was announced.
Murphy’s “Candy Cane Lane” makes its premiere on Amazon Prime on Dec. 1.
Mike Todd Tackles The ‘Spit That Hit The Fan’ And Childhood Trauma In New Book
Pastor Mike Todd of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma is getting real in his new book “Damaged But Not Destroyed: From Trauma to Triumph.”
Not only does the New York Times best-selling author address his infamous sermon where he rubbed spit in his brothers’ eyes, but he shares more about his past childhood sexual abuse for the first time to inspire those walking through similar paths of healing.
Todd has become nationally known for his innate ability to make messages of faith relevant and accessible to people from all walks of life, “right where they’re at.” However, his performative approach to preaching has often made him a viral sensation and the receiver of fierce backlash.
In 2022, Mike Todd went viral for a radical demonstration in which he used saliva to illustrate the text. By addressing the scandal in the early parts of his new book, the Tulsa-based pastor confirms his readiness to take readers on a journey of transparency to healing transformation.
“I just feel a burden to encourage people that there is still value in them,” he told BLACK ENTERPRISE.
“No matter what has happened, no matter how hard it’s been, no matter where you have felt like you’ve taken a step back, there is a version of you that you haven’t met yet and you can’t quit now, that you may be damaged, but you are not destroyed, the value is still in you.”
The book introduces some of Todd’s original spirit-based terminology like “H.O.T,” which stands for (humble, open and transparent) and explains his belief in religious theology as well as therapy. Through his candid reflection on his past, Todd underlines his core message of moving past the “damage” in life to fulfill our destinies.
“I just went there. Before you get out of the first chapter, you going to be like, ‘OK, like that we going there,'” he said.
“Because I think that if I went first, it may give somebody else the courage to actually dive into the things that have happened in their life, in their childhood, in their teenage years, in their college years, in their adulting life to be able to really know that.”
Pastor Mike’s inspiration for this book stems from a rare place of vulnerability where he opens up about his past childhood sexual abuse for the first time in hopes of resonating with those walking through similar paths of healing.
The newly released book aims to serve as a pathway to transformation for anyone, and everyone. But especially for our Black men.
“This book is going to help everybody. I especially want you to help me share this message with Black men,” he said.
“I think that our community as well as our world would be better if we gave men permission to deal with their damage.”
Todd is also dabbling back into his start as a music producer and has new music with the release of “Transformation Worship.” The group’s songs, “Most High,” and the fan favorite, “Most High,” have already become viral hits.
Next up for Pastor Mike, is a children’s book written with his daughter Isabella called “A Cup of Love.” The new family book explains the importance of Mommy and Daddy going on date nights and he revealed the cover in our sit down. Press play below for the full interview.
DJ Khaled Recalls Almost Fighting Fat Joe Over A Pair Of ‘Worn’ Air Jordans, ‘It Actually Scared Me’
DJ Khaled just opened his own sneaker store in Miami and is reflecting back on his early sneakerhead days when he almost fought his longtime friend Fat Joe over a pair of Air Jordans.
The Grammy award-winning producer appeared on “Sneaker Shopping with Complex” where he relived his journey of going from a Champs employee to a chart-topping music artist and owner of his We The Best x SNIPES sneaker store.
Khaled has always had a passion for exclusive kicks and remembers when he secured four pairs of the “Black Chrome” Eminem x Carhartt Air Jordan 4 Retros. With four pairs of the exclusive shoe, his good friend Fat Joe assumed he could convince Khaled to give him the “worn” pair free of charge.
“I don’t know what was in him that day, it actually scared me,” Khaled recalled.
“So one day he was at my house, but I’ve never seen him go in my sneaker room with like good aggression. It was like a mission.”
“He was like ‘Yo give me the worn ones’… I looked at him like, ‘are you crazy?’ I was like running… grabbing… I thought I was gonna have to fight him,” Khaled revealed.
He went on to note their close bond, which includes Khaled’s start as a member of Joe’s Terror Squad crew in the 90s. With the “Lean Back” rapper being like “family” to Khaled, he didn’t want to come to blows with Joe over a pair of sneakers.
“I’m not doing that. I’m just telling you, I thought,” he said.
“Major key…everything you think, doesn’t mean you have to react. I had to stop myself, I’m not fighting Joey Crack.”
Now with his sneaker shop in Miami, Khaled can easily gift Fat Joe a pair of Air Jordans. The “We The Best” hitmaker teamed up with SNIPES for the new venture that’s all about giving back to the city that made him.
“This store is for the community, for the city, for the beach, for everyone that flies in out of town to witness Miami greatness. it’s about giving,” Khaled said.
NBA And Hennessy Extend Global Marketing Partnership
The NBA and Hennessy have agreed to a multiyear extension of their global marketing partnership.
The announcement was made by the NBA that the league and the world-renowned cognac brand extended the partnership, which also includes the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), NBA G League, USA Basketball, and the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
“We are thrilled to extend our global marketing partnership with the NBA,” said Laurent Boillot, president and CEO of Hennessy, in a written statement. “This collaboration is not just about shared values but also a strategic alignment with the cultural fabric that defines our fans and communities. Together, we will continue to push boundaries and deliver exceptional and meaningful moments that celebrate excellence in all its forms all over the world.”
The cognac brand has been participating with fans of the sport through numerous events over the past two years. Featured events have been the NBA All-Star and NBA Summer League, and Hennessy will further expand its presence during preseason and regular-season NBA Global Games around the world.
“Our collaboration with Hennessy has brought NBA fans around the world closer to the game of basketball through immersive, one-of-a-kind global experiences,” said Kerry Tatlock, NBA executive vice president of Global Marketing Partnerships and Media. “We look forward to continued celebrations with our Official Spirit as we bring unforgettable moments to our fans worldwide.”
For the upcoming NBA season, Hennessy started selling a series of limited-edition Hennessy x NBA bottles in VS, VSOP, and XO cognacs. These bottles were sold at local liquor stores and select e-retail boutiques at the beginning of this month.
The global effect of the partnership has seen the companies launch its “Courts Beyond Limits” program. Hennessy unveiled a series of basketball courts across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. The initiative featured a floating basketball court in Lagos, Nigeria, a floating court on London’s River Thames, and a beachside court at Sydney, Australia’s famed Bondi Icebergs.
You can get updates on Hennessy’s marketing partnership with the NBA by visiting Hennessy.com and following @Hennessy and #HennessyxNBA.
WNBA Rookie Of The Year, Aliyah Boston, Scores Analyst Gig For 2023-24 Big Ten Basketball Season
WNBA’s 2023 Rookie of the Year, Aliyah Boston, has become the newest in-studio analyst for Big Ten Men’s and Women’s basketball games.
NBC Sports announced the 21-year-old basketball star on Oct. 9 as part of its game and studio commentators lineup for the 2023-2024 Big Ten basketball season. According to the press release, Boston will cover Women’s games alongside analysts Carolyn Manno and Meghan McKeown.
The four-time All-America recipient shared the big news with her followers on social media. “Super excited to be a part of this team,” she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “God is good.”
The WNBA forward was already making big moves in the basketball arena ahead of the new broadcasting gig. NBC Sports noted Boston’s stats during her WNBA rookie season. She averaged 14.5 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. Hooping throughout her college years for the South Carolina Gamecocks, Boston was recognized as a two-time National Player of the Year and the 2022 NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player following the team’s national championship.
Earlier this year, BLACK ENTERPRISE reported that the South Carolina graduate was the first overall draft pick in the WNBA this year. Picked up by the Indiana Fever, Boston had already made an impression through her leadership skills.
“Aliyah Boston will have an immediate impact on our franchise on and off the court,” the team’s General Manager Lin Dunn said earlier this year. “We are very impressed with Aliyah’s post skills and her natural leadership skills. This a great day for our franchise!”
The 2023-2024 Big Ten basketball season will feature over 50 men’s and women’s games, beginning Nov. 6. The season will be streamed live exclusively on Peacock.
Shondaland And Netflix Acquire Rights To ‘Black Barbie’ Documentary
A “Black Barbie” documentary is on the way now that Shondaland and Netflix have acquired worldwide rights to the Lagueria Davis-directed film.
Unveiled at SXSW earlier this year, Davis’ “Black Barbie” documentary delves into the history of the first Black Barbie doll dating back to its 1980 debut, Variety reports. After receiving widespread acclaim during its premiere, Shonda Rhimes signed on to the team of executive producers as part of her overall deal with Netflix.
“Telling Black Barbie’s story has been such a personal journey and it warms my heart to celebrate the legacy of my aunt Beulah Mae Mitchell, Kitty Black Perkins, and Stacey McBride Irby in our film,” Davis said of the acquisition.
“We couldn’t have asked for better collaborators than Shondaland and Netflix to bring this story to the world.”
The film shares Davis’ personal tie-in to the Black Barbie along with stories of Mattel from insiders, consumers, cultural commentators, and historians. Following Black Barbie’s journey and cultural impact, the film highlights “the importance of representation and how dolls can be crucial to the formation of identity and imagination,” according to the logline.
The “Black Barbie” documentary comes just on the heels of the “Barbie” live-action movie’s $1.4 billion box office success. The blockbuster is still raking big screen bucks as Shondaland prepares to expand on the multicultural diversity that was visible throughout the film.
Davis was applauded for her unique approach to tackling the topic of inclusivity in her “Black Barbie” documentary.
“With its deeply amusing re-creations of actual Barbie dolls sauntering into white spaces or sitting at the end of a conference room table (the only BIDOC — Black, indigenous doll of color, so to speak), the movie can be wryly playful. … But there is pain, here, too,” movie critic Lisa Kennedy said of the film.
Davis wrote and directed the film for Lovely Day Films alongside Aaliyah Williams for Just A Rebel. Along with Rhimes and Beers as executive producers, others include Grace Lay of LinLay Productions and Sumalee Montano; Camilla Hall of Lady & Bird Films, Milan Chakraborty, and Jyoti Sarda.
Former NFL Player Sergio Brown Arrested in Connection with Mother’s Homicide After Mexico Party Stint
Former NFL player Sergio Brown was arrested on Oct. 10 concerning the death of his mother, Myrtle Simmons-Brown, whose body was discovered near a creek close to her Chicago-area home last month.
As reported by the New York Post, a series of events involving Brown has raised questions and led to the Tuesday arrest after being deported by Mexican authorities. The former pro footballer had been partying in Mexico after his mother’s passing, which led to his eventual deportation. According to an unidentified law enforcement source cited by CNN, Sergio was taken into custody near San Diego based on an arrest warrant issued in Illinois.
Authorities discovered Simmons-Brown’s lifeless body after receiving alerts from concerned relatives who had lost contact with her and her son. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that Myrtle, aged 73, had died from injuries related to an assault and classified her death as a homicide.
The twist in the narrative came when Brown posted a bewildering rant on his apparent burner Instagram account, “intplayerwithapassport.” In the video, he referenced the famous phrase from the 2003 children’s film “Finding Nemo” — “Just keep swimming.” He went on to mock the missing person’s report filed by his family, displaying erratic behavior that raised eyebrows.
Even more baffling was a video that surfaced, showing Brown partying in a club in Tulum, Mexico, while the investigation into Simmons-Brown’s murder was ongoing. In the video, The former football star appeared carefree, donning red Nike swimming trunks, with women dancing around him. He laughed and danced, seemingly detached from the gravity of the situation.
It’s important to note that Mexican authorities have been aware of his presence since Sept. 19. Still, they only deported him after Illinois issued a warrant for his arrest.
Brown’s history in the NFL saw him playing for several teams, including the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Buffalo Bills. He had a professional career spanning from 2010 to 2016. The Notre Dame alum also has roots in Maywood, a Chicago suburb, where he played high school football at Proviso East High School. The complex series of events surrounding this former NFL player leaves many questions to be answered as the legal process unfolds.
Thanks to an invite by Visit Lake Charles, BLACK ENTERPRISE explored the vibrant southwest Louisiana city and discovered resilient neighborhood gems along the way.
Lake Charles, a city brimming with entrepreneurial spirit and Creole and Cajun pride, is on the rise since Hurricane Laura and Delta eviscerated neighborhoods and swamped homes in 2020. During our adventure, BE met with Black locals, restauranteurs, and business owners who have had to overcome the season’s disasters. They are rebuilding and welcoming support.
From Lake Charles’ Cajun personality to its Texas flair, here is a timeless bucket list for travelers who want to spend consciously, circulate Black dollars and dive into Louisiana’s culture without the crowds.
At Alevan, the inclusive team wants guests and clients to not only feel included, but exclusive. BLACK ENTERPRISE visited the Lake Charles’ neighborhood charm envisioned by owner Charlita Delafose for one of the city’s first multicultural hair salons. In 2020, Delafose endured the impact of Hurricane Laura and sought to offer unwinding services by fostering “unity through beauty.” Alevan officially opened in October 2022, and BE got a chance to fully immerse into an oasis of self-care. Knadia, assistant manager and esthetician, told BE that Alevan is a “hidden gem.” No matter what “you’re in good hands regardless,” she added. The warm and welcoming environment provides levels of space and invites us all to enjoy a mimosa, host a wine tasting, read books in the library or celebrate in the outdoor sanctuary with a koi pond, fire pit, and waterfall features.
I tried a facial!
Knadia performed a 30-minute facial. From the calming tunes and aromatic smells to waking up with glowing skin, I was transported into a different world.
When BE landed on the M Bar scene, the rhythm and blues was beaming and the wings was flowing. From beer to wine, signature cocktails and frozen favorites, you can enjoy happy hour Monday – Saturday. So that Thursday night was no different. The multiple high-definition televisions brought the must-see games. The crowds and couples came with the celebratory vibes. “We’re not just your typical nightclub,” the owner told BE about the different elements she brings to the neighborhood, including cajun music and brunches. She is proud in hiring a diverse team and owning the building she’s currently operating. “Own it,” she advised.
I tried firecracker shrimp!
Whether you enjoy a spicy dish or not, this dish is delicious. An order gives you six shrimp lightly battered and fried in M Bar’s spicy cajun sauce.
Explore Lake Charles like never before with Biking Through The Lake, LLC! You can witness the stunning and serene views of the lakefront, historic downtown and the neighborhoods that stand taller than the natural disasters that swept through a year ago. Reserve a spot on a bicycle tour through Lake Charles with music, karaoke and optional light-up wheels. Whether you want to celebrate an occasion or go for a fun evening ride, Biking Through The Lake has got you covered with a high energy atmosphere. Follow them on Facebook for information about upcoming community events, and contact Donnie to book your memorable group ride. Upcoming events include The Lit Libra Ride, Rolling with the Queens of The Libras and Georgia’s Halloween Bike Ride.
Leonard Fuselier of Leonard’s Food Quarters / Photo Credit: Atiya Jordan
It’s typical a morning to have a catfish and grits meal for breakfast at Leonard’s Food Quarters. In fact, the establishment has been a tradition for the Lake Area since 1986. What makes Leonard’s unique is the mixture of Cajun & Creole food with a touch of soul and attention to detail. Specialties include red beans and rice, seafood platters, poboys, loaded baked potatoes, and of course, boudin links, boudin balls, and fresh cracklins’.
I tried catfish and grits!
If you are a pescatarian, don’t fret. Leonard’s can break your fast with crispy cajun catfish, shrimp, grits and biscuits.
BE stopped into Twanie’s Terrific Treats for freshly baked chocolate chip cookies right before they opened for business. Antwan Pettis II opened the doors near the heart of Downtown Lake Charles in 2022 after being a pop-up shop. The bakery features fresh baked goods including bread pudding, colossal cookies, pecan chocolate chip, magnificent cookies and cream, oatmeal and raisin, mocha coffee toffee, and so much more.
I tried chocolate chip cookies!
The richness of the cookie is even more satisfying when it is warm.
Famous for her pecan pralines, gingerbread cakes and sweet potato pies, Mrs. Johnnie’s treats are highly sought after in Southwest Louisiana. Leona Guillory Johnnie, owner of Mrs. Johnnie’s Gingerbread House, began her baking journey 40 years ago. The business transitioned from a home-based bakery to a storefront, offering pies, cakes, teacakes, pralines, and sweet breads. Her son, Kevin Ames, is continuing her legacy today. At Mrs. Johnnie’s Gingerbread House, sweet dough pies are freshly-baked daily for a sweet treat on-the-go or to enjoy in their dining room.
I tried sweet dough pie!
Mrs. Johnnie’s pies are full of love. They are reminiscent of the holidays and sweet childhood memories. The dough is golden brown and soft, while the filling gently satisfies your sweet tooth fix.
What’s more? Lake Charles offers something for everyone. If you’re not traveling at this time, support these businesses by spreading the word.
Howard University Swim Team Celebrates Their New Bling–Championship Rings
The men’s swim team at Howard University has some new bling to show off. After winning the Northeast Conference championship in February, the HBCU athletic squad finally received their rings on Oct. 6 to commemorate the hard-earned honor.
The team was already making history before the win, as Howard is the only HBCU in the country with a swim team, as confirmed by WUSA9. The title is especially significant to the team as it is also their first in over 30 years.
At the ring ceremony, the team was met with much applause, as head coach Nicholas Askew described the “magical” moment of solidifying their accomplishment through this event.
“It’s magical because typically, in our sport, we don’t get a chance to stop and do this,” detailed Askew. “So we make sure that we take care of our student-athletes and show them how much we value them.”
“This team was about to be cut way, way back,” revealed Langston Weddington, a senior from Marietta, Georgia, who competes in the breast, individual medley, and free races. “And then Coach Nick came in, turned it all around and brought us all in. We were part of the team to bring a lot of light to the University, do a lot, and get a lot of attention out there that we really can swim and we are great at it. It’s very special for us.”
Coach Askew also spoke to reporters about this accomplishment’s impact on “representation” for the Black community.
“We’re standing as a representation, especially to the Black and Brown community. Swimming can lead to so many different avenues, including a championship, which it has for us,” expressed the athletic leader.
The school, which also requires a swim course for its College of Arts and Sciences students to graduate, is uplifting its student-athletes in this sport as the team eyes more rings in the future.
“And I really just say stay tuned and keep watching what we do because we’re going to be on some more headlines,” shared Weddington. “We’re going to be making a lot more waves in and out of the water.”
Angela Rye Sets Sexyy Red Straight On Trump Claims
Political commentator Angela Rye has had it with the fake news. After Sexyy Red’s controversial comments praising Donald Trump for his time as POTUS, Rye countered the assumptions with evidence of how disturbing the politician is.
In lengthy videos posted to X, Rye recapped the facts on the stimulus check that the rapper applauded Trump for and examples regarding the racism he has allegedly perpetuated for decades.
Words are powerful and declarations? Even more so. When folks “say it with their chests”, loud and proud…it must be true, RIGHT?!
NAH. Donald Trump is no different than Christopher Columbus. Two lost white men telling you they accomplished something the didn’t.
“To Sexyy Red and everyone else who’s found themselves in the camp for ‘Blacks for Trump,’ I would invite you to look into his record,” shared the CEO of IMPACT Strategies, a political advocacy firm. “I’m coming to you all as someone who definitely, by admission, politically privileged…so I am trying to step and lean into grace to meet you where you are because some of this misinformation, some of these ‘facts,’ have to be fact-checked.”
Sexyy Red originally made headlines for expressing her support for the former president to the shock of viewers of Theo Von’s This Past Weekend web show.
“Once he started getting Black people out of jail and giving people their free money,” shared the rapper. “Oh baby, we love Trump, we need him back in office.”
In light of the “Pound Town” artist’s opinion of Trump, Rye explained the true purpose of her response video as Trump gains more financial support for his 2024 campaign: Black people are misinformed of what he really stands for.
“This video isn’t just about Sexyy Red. This video is really, or this video series, are really to ensure that Black folks who are for Trump or, just might be, by default, understand what he’s really done or not done for us,” wrote Rye.
She continued to debunk the notions used to defend Trump, such as his pardoning of multiple Black people. She revealed that during his time as president, he actually pardoned the least number of people since 1945.
Rye’s subsequent videos dug deeper into Trump’s racist history, such as his 1973 lawsuit by the Department of Justice for housing discrimination and his questioning of the authenticity of President Barack Obama’s citizenship.
This is Part 2 for #SexyyRed and other Blacks for Trump: what in the hell do you have to lose? EVERYTHING.
I heard y’all on the stimulus piece. I have something coming on that ASAP, but I wanted you to get this history first. ✊🏾💕 pic.twitter.com/QmQCD8AywM
Her final video addressed the very claim Sexyy Red’s love for Trump was based on: the stimulus checks.
Allow me to say my bad. It didn’t even occur to me that the Trump checks #SexxyRed referenced were STIMULUS checks. Thanks to you all for flagging in the comments. Thanks to my brother @cthagod for flagging it as well. Shout out to @lildurk as well (more on that in the video!)… pic.twitter.com/D0a8BalllC
The political strategist explained how the alleged “Trump Checks” were more of an act of Congress, and that President Joe Biden’s authorized stimulus checks actually amounted to more. As for if Sexyy Red’s opinion of the infamous president will change after hearing the facts, that remains in question.
